Color Me Jenny

"somebody's got a birthday....

2013-08-21T21:46:00.000-07:00

I wonder who. Somebody's got a birthday. I think it's YOU!"

Such is the song my mother sings the entire month of your birthday and friends, this month is MY month. As promised, here is my birthday list. Gifts are not required but appreciated ;)

Happy #26 to me come next Wednesday! Yee Haw!

new sheets
white undershirt (but not downeast)
white tank top
copy of Catching Fire
ironing board
iTunes giftcard
auxiliary cord (to play music in my car)
dollar movies for the collection
pair of black skinny jeans
dress pants
thick silver belt
flowers
26 of something (just for you, Maggie)
matching shams to my bedspread *Target*
"Gladiator" sandals
new journal
fedora
floor lamp
cookie sheets
colored jeans
movie "42"
drink pitcher
anything from World Market
sleeping bag
dutch oven
patio/camp chairs
air mattress
moose pillow pet (yes, you read that right)

rain, roses, laundry and moosen

2013-06-27T14:36:00.004-07:00

This week has been INSANE no matter how I try and spin it. I am always up for adventures and the bigger the better in my opinion. Zim says that I make a great Bilbo Baggins. I guess she’s right. Every time another adventure starts, I grab my “pack” and start running. (Figuratively and literally speaking)

Monday: I learned that there will be further structural changes to happen in my corporate universe within the next few weeks and I am feeling terribly unsettled. I still have a job but there is no telling what will be added to my responsibilities. To be honest, I want more. I can do more. So maybe this whole thing will sway in my favor…..but I won’t count my chickens yet.

After a crazy day at work, I went with the roommates to FHE. The Bishop’s wife came over and said that our house must be one of the most fun in the ward. We just laughed. Although, yes, Sister E. I would have to agree since every night feels like a huge slumber party. We ate “Mexican Haystacks” that were prepared by Sister D and, oh my heavens, they were delicious! I am slowly learning how to cook more than pasta and scrambled eggs so a complete meal was heaven! We sat outside in the rain with the rest of the ward while Brother D shared a thought about journal writing. It was a well needed wake-up call as I heard one of the high councilmen talk about how greatly he values the thoughts and stories his sister has recorded while she has been dealing with cancer. My struggles cannot be compared with the trials of dealing with cancer but Brother D also shared that writing in a journal reminds us that our personal story is important. If you are feeling down and out or lonely, record how you have seen the Lord’s hand in your life and it will instantly turn things around. Amen and amen, Brother D!!!

To end Monday’s adventure, we headed home and cozied up to our favorite gentlemen on this season of The Bachelorette. Drama, drama, drama! I haven’t been one to watch this series in the past. Most often, I’ll get the low-down from Melanie. I’ll admit it. I’m addicted. Brooks, your hair is a little funky but I’d give you a rose every day of the week! If it doesn’t work out with Des, you could come back to Salt Lake and date me…. Just sayin’ :)

Tuesday: Life has yet to settle down in my corporate world but Tuesday was more of a quiet buzz than anything. Everyone survived.

I was scheduled to meet with my Bishop so I had to miss movie fun with the roommates. They tell me White House Down is worth checking out! (and for more than simply drooling over Channing Tatum) I ate dinner alone while watching Puss in Boots. (Sidenote: I started watching the movie down in Provo late at night with friends but I still have yet to see the ending. Two strikes… Third time is the charm??) I got a little lost trying to find Bishop’s office by myself since the other times I’ve been in the building, I simply followed Jen and Sasha around. I had a great interview with the Bishop and I even received a calling! Woohoo….

Afterwards, I realized that I was in dire need of doing some laundry. When I agreed to move in, there was a washer and dryer in the house. When Susan left, she took them with her and we have been trying to get the landlady to buy us new ones for the past three to four weeks. We are further along in the process but no W/D as of yet. On Sunday, Oma said that I could come over any time. (I realize that a number of people have offered to help me but it was incredibly last minute.) I called as I left my house and heard talking in the background but I just figured it was the television. When I pulled up, my aunt and uncle and cousins were over for dinner and here I go walking through with dirty clothes…. Uncle Carl and my cousin, Jack, tried really hard to tease me. Seriously folks, some things are necessities and you deal with them too! Still, it was a fun visit. Jack told me some of his cop stories and how he hit himself in the eye while fighting a guy. Note to self: When fighting a criminal, don’t jump on his back with your fighting stick in hand. It will bounce up and hit you in the eye!

Wednesday: Yesterday was an adventure from the moment I woke up. To accurately explain the number of adventures that happened that day, it would require its own post. Let’s just say work was crazy and frustrating so I high-tailed it to Temple Square to regain my perspective. While there, I ran into my new friend, Julie. We both ended up in front of the Church Office Building to pray. Coincidence? Are you kidding me?!

Later in the afternoon, I ran into Click who “just happened” to be standing outside my office. I say “just happened” because she had no idea that is where I work but I refuse to believe in coincidences. There is no way the Lord isn’t completely in control of things like that.

Melanie and I headed up Big Cottonwood Canyon because she hadn’t been to see Lake Mary. I received the best Brighton fix in the form of three moose and an epic sunset. As we hiked, I could hear the campers at cookouts and over-nighter and it made my heart twinge. I am definitely a beehive at heart. Brighton LDS Girls’ Camp pumps through my veins.

The night ended with a visit at Zim's cabin and a package of birthday cake oreos for the drive down the canyon. By this time, it was 11pm and the deer love to make themselves known on the road. I drove with my brights on and I'm sure that I annoyed more than a few drivers headed the opposite way. (I really DID try to flip my brights off when I saw a car coming. I simply wasn't always smarter than the switch.)

My take away from the past three days is a reminder of the knowledge that Heavenly Father is aware of us. He knows our struggles. He knows our heartaches. He knows us better than we know ourselves. And after everything, He still loves us unconditionally so He places people in our path who make life amazing! No matter what!

three years ago...

2013-05-10T16:50:00.000-07:00

My heart has been incredibly tender today as it is the three year anniversary of a day that changed my life forever. Three years ago today, Carrie went into surgery to fix her scoliosis. In all my life, it seems that my family is the “one chance in a million.” That horrible day is one that is cemented in my memory. Melanie and I were home and I knew something was wrong even before my dad called. I tried to stay busy to keep my mind from imagining all the things that could go wrong. Since that was the case, the phone call occurred while Melanie and I sat in the Reams parking lot. The surgery was filled with complications and Carrie had no feeling in either of her legs. We had no idea the road that lay ahead of us. That road included Carrie in a coma, forced to relearn how to be the dynamic redhead we all know and love, and living for three months in Primary Children’s Medical Center.

Today, three years later, we have traveled far and few things remain as evidence for everything that we endured. Still, this tricky road isn’t over and we continue to live one day at a time. I would never assume to think that I had the short end of the stick in this situation! Carrie is my hero and always will be. She has more strength and faith than all the stripling warriors combined! She faced devastating odds and has conquered them repeatedly. I strive to be a better person daily because of her amazing example.

I have too many things to be grateful for today. I wouldn’t have made it through that summer so long ago without my parents, my sisters, our ward family, and my wonderful friends. Somehow my parents instilled in me the ability to laugh through the pain. While Carrie spent 73 days in the hospital and it became my home, we were able to have fun. I look back on those days and I can still smile! We had countless parties including a number of root-beer floats with our favorite nurses. We met a number of wonderful people that still remain a part of the family.

It is crazy to think that PCMC is one of my favorite places in the world. Still, it is home. I know the hallways backwards, forwards, and sideways. I could tell you when and where to get the best sugar cookies in the history of sugar cookies (besides the Hortin originals, of course). I can play UNO with the best of ‘em. And if you ever stop by for lunch, grab a hamburger on wheat with Swiss and a little BBQ and think of me. The Hortins have certainly made their mark on that place. Heaven help us that we only have to go back for checkups in the future…

Can you see how far we've come? Happy Three Years to Us!

catching the wave

2013-05-01T15:33:00.002-07:00

(May 1^st! We’ve made it all the way to May 1^st! I can’t believe it, especially because of the flurry of snow I met this morning as I climbed down the stairs.)

Two of my closest and dearest friends leave on missions today. Aren't they beautiful???

Blaze and Sushi aka Sister Blazzard and Sister Stack

In fact, at this point I believe one is in the air headed to the MTC in Guatemala while the other just walked into the MTC doors of Provo. These two make missionaries #8 and #9 in my little Brighton 2012 family and I couldn’t be more excited for these darling sisters to go and conquer the world by sharing the Christ-like love of Brighton and their unstoppable testimonies. Still, my heart fractures slightly to know that I will not see these wonderful individuals for a full 18 months. Time goes quickly and before I know it, we will all be reunited again. Today, right now, it doesn’t feel like it. I feel my heart going with them.

I know I am not the first to feel this type of heartbreak and I will most definitely not be the last. With the large wave of missionaries headed out in response to the prophet’s call, I’m sure that everyone has their own experience. These girls mean the world to me!

Go forth and serve, my friends. God be with you til we meet again :)

accountable

2013-04-26T12:44:00.000-07:00

I made this blog years ago because I thought that was what the cool kids were doing. “You have a blog? Then, maybe I should have a blog….” After I graduated from college, I used it as a way to continue writing after doing so constantly for my degree. It was my own version of Continual Education. I was going strong there for a good year or so and then the craziness of 2012 happened. A number of my wildest dreams came true and I found myself barely able to keep up with the changes. Thus, the blog suffered. Why do you care? You probably don’t. But…. I’m going to keep writing anyway.

Those of you who know me and follow my blog know that I work for Deseret Book. (How could you not know…? Seriously, I’ve beaten that dead horse so far into the ground, it’s ridiculous.) While working in marketing, I’ve learned all sorts of things including the fact that bloggers are one of our biggest tools. We send out countless books for blogger reviews that help to further publicity. We recently published a book with the astronomically popular blog “Six Sisters Stuff” because we can. And we should. For books that we want to make a splash, we set up a “blog tour” where 50 or so bloggers post repeatedly. I recently bought tickets for some in the department to attend a blogging conference the end of next month to learn more how we can connect and increase our reach. Point being- blogs are still what the cool kids are doing. In fact, even more cool kids have jumped on the bandwagon. And I’m a cool kid, right?

I realize that I don’t have the skills to make this into anything famous or life-altering for anyone but me. I don’t know much about cooking. I do not have a husband or children that are picky eaters and require a home cooked meal every night. If I had time to sit down and craft, I would rather spend it climbing a mountain, playing at the park, or finding some way to bask in the sunshine. Yet, I feel the void that neglecting this little blog friend of mine has created.

Therefore, I’m back! I don’t pledge that great things will come of this. It is more self-serving than anything else but I miss it. I miss writing. I miss this social channel and its ability to connect to people, even if those it reaches are related to me and hear the same stories on Sunday. Starting today, I will post at least once a day. I know that this means less to you than it does to me but I thought I should make myself more accountable from this point forward.

Thank you for reading my longwinded ramblings. Hello friends! I’ve missed you!

that awkward moment when...

2013-03-12T16:29:00.003-07:00

you fall asleep on a stranger's shoulder.

(P.S. This happened weeks ago. Did I mention that my sister's wedding was the end of February? I was a little preoccupied...)

Here's my story:

A little while ago, I went with some friends up to Lava Hot Springs. I had never been before and I had no idea the fun and relaxing time that awaited me. The occasion came about because I was conversing with one of my best friends about the craziness that is my life at the moment. After my venting session, she invited me to tag along with the "Sandy Crew" (my personal name for the group) and head up to Lava.

I left work a little early to pack my overnight bag and to wait for Britt and Mel to come and pick me up. We left Salt Lake and the muggy air while jamming to Backstreet Boys and N'SYNC. (Shout out to my elementary years!) When we had traveled as far as Ogden, it was time to stop for some food. I found out that others have as much trouble picking what to eat as I do. Lucky for us, we found an exit with a Subway right next to a Wendy's. Mel and I headed over for some flat bread and sweet onion teriyaki and met the other girls to eat next door. We were talking about this, that and the other when all the sudden, I'm on my knees. Wearing my slick leather boots on black ice- not a good idea. Correction. Black ice - not a good idea. I hit the ground hard and scratched up my knee. Awesome.

Back on the road, we sang harmony to Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson and bonded with the Idaho stars. I've seen my far share of beautiful night skies and let me tell you - that was a beautiful night sky. After a few detours and u-turns, we pulled into Soda Springs and the fun little lodge that we had rented for the night. It was huge and yet so cozy. We met up with the rest of the crew and they wanted to give us a little tour. Actually, they wanted to show us the creepy basement. Dave and Loni were staged in a little room trying to freak us out. Poor things hung out in the dark basement for almost an hour and I think they only kinda scared Justin. One out of fifteen.

We spent the rest of the night playing games and eating food. When it was far past the time to go to bed, everyone went their separate ways.We awoke early the next morning and I learned that I make a mean pancake. I've watched my dad make pancakes almost every morning for the past 25 years and tried to make him proud. A number of compliments later, I felt pretty accomplished. I'm not saying that making pancakes is neurosurgery, but hey, I'm pretty good at it.

The springs were fantastic and super relaxing (besides the fact that I was in a swimsuit). Check that off my bucket list- I have been to Lava Hot Springs and even hung out in the Fire Hot pool or whatever the super hot one is called. We stayed for a few hours and were completely relaxed by the time we headed back south for dinner/lunch at Maddox.

Here is when things get awkward: Remember when you hang out in a hot tub and get super relaxed and then all you want to do is sleep? Well, I do. I tried, friends... I honestly tried to stay awake. I was sitting in the back of Tamra's car next to Dave and Nate. I know Dave a little but not enough to sleep on his shoulder. I was awake and talking and chilling out when suddenly..... BOOM! My head hits Dave's shoulder. Hard.

If only I could have swayed towards the window. If only I could have slept funky and ended up with a crick in my neck. If only I could have stayed awake...then what followed for the rest of the trip would not have happened.

I woke instantly and apologized. I wasn't completely awake so I don't remember exactly what happened in the next few minutes but I do remember being accused of "putting the moves" on Dave. That was not even close to my intentions but try and convince my friends of that fact. The entire time we spent eating lunch was accompanied with jokes pointed at my ability to "put on the moves."

Have they forgotten they forgotten the incident since then? Ha, in my dreams...

words to live by

2013-02-22T14:02:00.001-08:00

new year

2013-01-29T23:00:00.001-08:00

Happy 2013 everyone!

I'm only a few weeks late in wishing you a happy new year.

(Don't judge. It could be much worse.)

I know I should be looking towards the new year with enthusiasm. I am in a way. This year will prove to be one of many changes in my life- most important of which is that I will have a BIL as of February 28. Weird.

On the other side, I have a funky feeling about 2013. Last year was one of the best! EVER! So many of my wildest dreams came true that now I don't know where exactly life will take me. What dreams do I have left? (Other than the obvious of finding Mr. Right...)

During my trip to Oregon at the beginning of December, my friend, Kuhn, asked me what plans I had for my future. I sat there and mumbled something but I've realized that I don't really know. I suppose I should get cracking on it.

While considering this great dilemma, I found this article from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.
Enjoy!

https://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/01/the-best-is-yet-to-be?lang=eng

I choose to believe it is true- that the best is yet to be. Here's to a great 2013 with all of its ups and downs!

happy Christmas shopping...

2012-12-20T16:04:00.000-08:00

Not to be a walking advertisement for the place who writes my paycheck, but I thought that some may want a little bit of help in their holiday shopping. And if so- I've got some great ideas for you! (All pictures belong to Deseret Book.)

New from Elder Holland- Honestly, that is all you need to know. But I'm gonna tell you about it anyway. I've known about this book for awhile and was even given the opportunity to read it before it was published. Believe me when I tell you that this book will hit the mark of any person on your Christmas list. This book contains Elder Holland's own reflections of the Psalms with a specific attention to the Messiah and the 23rd Psalm. EVERYONE will benefit from this book!

When I first opened the manuscript months ago, I was encouraged by the fact that it was all new writings from one of my favorite apostles. Little did I know the peace and the healing balm that his words would be on what I considered an untroubled heart. His writing is personal. So much so that I felt as if he were speaking directly to Jenny Hortin through the pages. Could he have had me in mind when he wrote it? Slightly, but only because we all deal with the same troubles. We are all trying to do our best and make it from day to day. This is the answer to the problems you didn't know you had.

AND not only is it a wonderful book, but it comes with a DVD with 2 HOURS OF ELDER HOLLAND answering questions about life. A friend of mine was able to attend the taping and she said it was a life-changing experience to sit at the feet of an apostle who knows what we are going through and wants nothing more than to help bring us closer to the light of the Gospel. If I haven't convinced you to buy the book, buy the DVD and you'll get the book for free! :) (In a manner of speaking)

2)

This book has been out in our stores for some time but if you haven't grabbed a copy, one for your mom, or your sister, or your grandmother, or those you visit teach, then you need to! This lovely book is exactly what it appears. It contains divine instruction from Joseph Smith during the first meetings of the Relief Society in Nauvoo with personal insights from my friends, Sheri and Virginia. (They don't know me from Eve, but I figure if they did, we would be friends.) This book is a great reminder of the power of women and the role we play in the grand scheme of things.

3)

I love this book! I may or may not have two copies of it on my bookshelf at home, one being signed by the author.... In my personal, unbiased opinion, every single girl should read this book! It will make you laugh, possibly cry, and will most definitely make your romantic heart race. If I could find a man like Phillip, I'd marry him. Just sayin' Buy one for your mom, sister, and your best friends. Read it in Book Club. Carry it with you while riding public transportation. If you haven't caught on yet: YOU NEED THIS BOOK!

4) For the kids on your list:

This is the second of The Candy Shop War series so go ahead and buy the first as well. You say the name Brandon Mull and you know you are in for a good treat. Any fans of Fablehaven, or the Beyonders will be a fan of this series. I feel a personal connection to this book because of the massive marshmallow war that I helped with---if I haven't told you that story yet, it's a classic. Ask me about it one day.

5) Get a jelly watch from DB! I own the pink and through my family, we own all but the orange and green. Still, it is only a matter of time before I storm the store and grab everyone for myself. Act fast!

proof

2012-12-20T16:00:00.002-08:00

I work at Deseret Book, right? Well, by doing so, I get to meet really cool people. Sometimes I feel like friends don't believe me. But, dear readers, I have proof.

This past weekend was the big Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert. Because I'm lucky, my occupation, and my parents love me, I was able to attend both Friday and Sunday performances. Why you ask? Because I am in love with Alfie Boe. Period.

By pulling some important strings, DB was able to schedule a signing following the Friday performance and since I have connections, my friend, Heather, asked if I would be willing to come help. Sheesh, twist my arm.

I met Carrie, Maggie and Josh at the Conference Center and we had a glorious time. I may have mentioned my poor friend, Hunter, who had to watch last year's concert over and over again to make our TV spot. He came to my desk and was showing bits and pieces of the concert to more fully convince me that the show was "boring" and the costumes were "weird." (Simply quoting.) Well, all I can say is that this year's concert kicked last year's TRASH! Everything- the costumes, the decor, the story of the Candy Bomber (side note: The Candy Bomber came to my middle school for a special assembly when I was in 8th or 9th grade. I feel like we're friends.), Tom Brokaw, and not to mention Mr. Alfie Boe- was incredible. INCREDIBLE! I laughed. I cried. I sang along. We swayed back and forth to the Christmas Waltz, and Josh convinced Maggie to get me one of those flowing dresses for Christmas. We had a wonderful time during the concert.

But that was only the beginning.

Did I mention that I helped with the signing? Did I also mention that meant I was able to meet Tom Brokaw and almost able to meet Alfie.... I say almost because I didn't actually talk to him. But still. We bonded.

Don't believe me? Proof:

Look!!!!! See me? Less than three feet away- Tom Brokaw and ALFIE BOE! Shut the front door! Yeah, I know. Look at my crazy cool life!

I like Tom. He was terribly nice but by the time we had the MASSIVE crowd out the door it was after 11pm. He was ready to go back to his swanky hotel and go to sleep. My friend, Ron, was trying terribly hard to rush both stars out the door. Tom was ready to leave but Alfie was practically dragged out of the building. He is nicer than I imagined. He spent as much time as he could talking to people, shaking hands, signing autographs, giving hugs, etc. I wanted to run after him as he was being pulled from the building but I figured Ron would tell Sheri to fire me or something else as drastic that I just watched him walk away and fell even more in love. Yes, I know he is happily married and has two kids. Never gonna happen. But in the words of Sheri Dew, "Alfie Boe is the only man that could convince me to marry a non-member."

As I stood there gawking, Heather saw me and asked if I was alright. I explained that I wanted to go and meet him but knew better. Then--- funniest moment of the whole night--- Heather says that she will give me Alfie's Mentos. As Tom and Alfie were signing, we provided gum and Mentos to keep their breath minty fresh. Alfie left a good amount in the package and either someone was going to take them home or they were going to be thrown away. So- I got them. Thanks to my friends in the music department, I own Alfie Boe's Mentos. Be jealous.

Sunday morning, I snagged the last ticket from the four I got from Marketing and went along with Mom, Dad and Melanie to Music and the Spoken Word. Lloyd Newell spent five whole minutes telling us not to clap. "I've seen this every night so far and believe me, you are going to want to clap. Please don't. Don't clap. Did I mention not to clap?...." The video guys actually cut him off because the show was about to start. He was right. We almost had to sit on our hands to keep ourselves from clapping. Did I mention that this year's concert kicks last year's trash? Oh, I did. Good.

Melanie didn't really have a clue who Alfie was before this past weekend. I've played the YouTube video of Alfie singing Bring Him Home enough that she recognized him. Now, she is a constant follower on Facebook. She loved my stories of the signing and loves the Mentos I carry almost as much as I do. We aren't stalkers. I promise.

Here they are- the famous minty treat in the same shot as Alfie himself. Sadly, you can't see him but he's there. Just above my hand.

I meet famous people. All in a day's work.

warning you: i'm emotional

2012-11-13T14:59:00.001-08:00

I used to be able to keep my emotions in check. I used to be able to stop myself from crying at sappy commercials or happy endings. Well, that's flown out the window. I saw this posted on Facebook through Mormon Messages today at work. No, I am not dealing with the same situation to the same degree but I have had a few weeks, especially the past few days, where I can't figure out which way is up. I know which way I want to be up and which way should be up, but getting myself there as quickly as I would like is proving to be a problem. Anyway. That's enough about my troubles.

The POINT is that even though I'm slightly messed up and way off balance,

I AM NOT FORGOTTEN.

(If you are a baby like me, now would be a good time to reach for the nearest tissue box.)

I was sitting in the Conference Center when President Uchtdorf gave this address. His talk then found me weeping. It was such a new sight to my sister and my mom that both asked if I was okay. The answer for today is: Not really, but I will be.

30 for 30

2012-11-11T15:44:00.001-08:00

It has been a goal of mine to take on the challenge of a "30 for 30" for awhile now. When the other Hortin sisters talked about the idea, I was all in. Sadly, I've been a bit preoccupied to take pictures. Well that, and having pictures taken of me is not my favorite past time. Still, I tried to stay close to the rules.

If you haven't ever heard of a "30 for 30," let me explain. As a way to play around with your closet, you choose 30 articles of clothing (slacks, skirts, shirts, jeans, sweaters, shoes, whatever...) and make outfits for the next 30 days with only those pieces.
For our own, we made a few exceptional rules.
Rules:

Saturdays are optional.
Accessories work as wild cards except for shoes.
Undershirts don't count.
Outerwear doesn't count.

I succeeded in staying within the 30 pieces with only a few foul ups. Today is supposedly the last day of our 30 and I have yet to post any pictures or make any posts.... So, let's just pretend like I have.

Here you go:

shirt: H&M; skirt: gift for my birthday (DownEast); scarf: sister's closet;

watch: Walmart; shoes: Payless :)

Thanks to Melanie for being my photographer. She's pretty great at it. We had fun "being artistic" with an unartistic camera. The hope with this was to mix textures. It doesn't hurt that this skirt makes any curves look good. Heaven knows that I have curves.

During this attempt at 30 for 30, I learned that if I really only had 30 pieces of clothing, I would still have trouble getting dressed in the morning. My mother told me that as long as I have been dressing myself, it has always been a major ordeal. I start with one idea and end up with something else. Preparing my clothes the night before is NOT an option for yours truly. On the upside, I learned that I really like pattern mixing. Give me some time to figure out the kinks of this challenge thing and I'll try this again.

bagpipers and paper-cuts

2012-11-01T13:14:00.002-07:00

I had no idea that days in the corporate world would be so dang funny. Sit back, relax, and grab a snack as I share some of my favorite moments from the past few weeks of DB life.

I'd like to introduce to one of the company annoyances: the City Creek bagpiper. He stands next to the crosswalk that connects City Creek to Temple Square and plays all day long. I am not particularly against bag-piping. If a man chooses to express himself by blowing into a large bag with pipes attached, he is more than welcome to in my book. If, perchance, that expression leaves others to rush to their cubicles crying, he may have a bigger problem. Also, if those people belong to DB, you know I'm gonna have a great story to go along with it.

Mr. Piper, let's be honest, is not the best bagpiper in the land. Why else would he stand on the side of the street panhandling for money? I am not an expert on piping expertise but one note of his sounds like three different squawks that are relatively in the same key. Sometimes I can catch the tune. Whenever I catch a phrase or two of "Praise to the Man" (Yes, I know the tune is some Irish song or something), it makes me smile. Needless to say, he is not the favorite musician on the street. Many of the DB associates have tried to find a way to get rid of him. (Nothing shady- don't worry. The DB hit team is still under raps...) Every time the company gets together, (or few times over the corporate email) there is an ongoing joke that whoever gets rid of Mr. Piper will win $500. (I'm sure enough of the building is willing to donate their own penny cash to whoever conquers the music bandit.) If anyone wins the money, I'll be sure to let you know.

The Case of the Paper-cuts is an equally fascinating story. A few weeks back, DB came out with a special gift to all its customers: a $5 off for a $25 purchase coupon. (Side note: if you would like a coupon, let me know. I have connections now.) It became a bit of a contest to see who would be able to hand out the most after Jeannie took hundreds over to MoTab practice for the entire choir and orchestra. The COB HR Dept. requested a good 2000 to hand out to all of their employees! As exciting as that sounds, the coupons come on rolls of close to 5000 coupons each. Meaning that someone had to roll out the correct number to send across the street. Who should get that responsibility but my friend Derek. Ergo, he would holler and ask if I would help. Scott had the awesome idea that we could measure how many coupons would line the major hallway from Dustin's office to the far end of the break room. Walking a roll of coupons down the hallway didn't seem like enough fun to me so I had the idea that Derek and I could race. He jumped on that idea! Why wouldn't he? How often does anyone race down the hallway in the corporate world?

Derek went first. He started strong for the first three feet. Then the middle of the roll decided to make an appearance and fall all over the floor. After his girlish squeals while putting the roll back together, he made a grand total of 35 seconds from start to finish. Then it was my turn. I learned enough from his experience to keep track of the whole roll while I ran. That certain development resulted in several paper-cuts all over my hands. Still, I won. The pain was totally worth it!

We decided to run twice even though it was more coupons than we needed. The second time, Derek ran like the wind! I tried to keep up and was doing a pretty good job until I hit the center of the hallway and heard the door open on my right. I remember thinking, "Oh crap! What if that's Sheri...?" and I dropped the roll. Whether it be fortunate or not, it wasn't Sheri. I am sorry to say that I lost big time on the second run.

Derek and I exchanged YOU ROCK cards since we both won once and then attempted to get back to work. The rest of the Marketing team were sad that they missed out on all the fun. Mike and Megan came out of a meeting and began taking pictures of the mess we made to possibly post online... If you see them, let me know!

This is just a few pieces of my life here at Corporate. I still feel like I'm floundering a bit but life goes on... One day, I'll know what I'm doing. At least, here's hoping!

training wheels

2012-10-15T22:45:00.001-07:00

I was reminded yesterday that I haven't been very faithful to my little bloggy blog or its readers.
My sincerest apologies.

Today was my first day flying solo as THE Marketing Coordinator of DB. The training wheels are off. How did it go? Well, the building is still standing so let's count it as a success. I didn't make it into the office "on time". But then I don't really have an exact time that would make me late. Reports aren't finished. The email that is due to my boss was barely done on time. I had to drive to Target for gift cards and looked like an idiot when I asked the Customer Service guy if they really worked. I helped with a coworkers birthday but then didn't know what to say so I stood around awkwardly. Sure, "it's only awkward if you make it awkward." I made that awkward.

On the flip side, I brought out some of my Brighton skills. Dustin was moaning and groaning in pain as he sat at his desk. If there if one thing that I learned at camp, it is how to get someone ice.

Here goes for another day tomorrow where I will sit in meetings, finish up reports, and pay invoices. Man, I sound like an adult!

quarter of a century

2012-09-27T21:44:00.002-07:00

My "Birthday Week" (a month ago) was a success! I felt so loved. I am too lucky to have such wonderful people in my life that care so much.

Monday began the celebration with a dinner with my BF, Pixel. She treated me to burgers and slushes at Millie's Burgers. I love little "hole in the wall" joints that are one of a kind. Millie's was perfect! It is off of 2100 South, not too far away from the Dollar Movie Theater. I had a kiwi slush, malibu chicken sandwich and yummy fries. It was delicious but the best part was the company and my awesome birthday card. :)

The party moved over to the Dollar Movies. Pix and I were both excited to go and laugh at Kristen Stewart's acting in "Snow White and the Huntsman" and we weren't disappointed in her futile attempt. I don't recommend it unless you are in the mood for a crazy, insane movie with only a few highlights. Afterwards, we tried to think of three good things in the movie. We came up with 1. Young Snow White and William
2. Chris Hemsworth (best acting job in the whole movie) and I forget the third. The writers and the director took a few liberties to say the least. As the movie progressed, it became curiouser and curiouser... And then it was downright weird. But, I thought you might enjoy a few snipets of the best scene in the movie. (And yes, it keeps Stewart's acting little to none.)

Happy Watching!

Tuesday was a great day. I awoke to my family singing "Happy Birthday" and opened my lovely gifts. Because my dad loves me, he took the morning off to go hiking with me! It was a dream come true. We headed up Big Cottonwood Canyon to my beloved Brighton and followed the trail to Mary-Twin. It was a beautiful morning and perfect weather for hiking.

We started off up the Mary trail and saw a moose! I told Dad that he was officially a part of Brighton now that he had seen a moose up close. Hopefully, Dad had as much fun as I did. It was the best gift he could have given me!

After hiking, Dad showed me his new office and I saw some of my old friends from my MassMutual days. Dad joked that I had attempted to "kill off my dad..." when we explained why I was still lugging around my trusty Camelbak. Then we headed back home and I watched a few of my favorite episodes of Chuck, showered, and got ready for our dinner plans.

Dinner was a trip to Gardner Village. My family and I wandered through some of the fun little shops, bought a few things, enjoyed our free fudge samples, and then went to Archibald's for dinner. It was delicious. Note: Rootbeer float fudge really does taste like a rootbeer float. Interesting party for my tastebuds.

The day ended with a lovely message from some of my Brighton pals where they sang "Happy Birthday" to me- Brighton style. I loved it so much! Thanks friends!!!

Wednesday continued the celebrating with a trip over to The Tulip aka Tamra's house. She treated me to frozen yogurt at U-Swirl and I made every once count. I recommend trying cheesecake. It is delightful. Maggie came too and it was great fun!

Thursday was GAME DAY!!! I love Utah football. I live for Utah football. All members of the Hortin family, except Maggie, sat around the TV in our red and cheered on our boys. I had missed John White and I had no idea how much until he was out on the field. Wynn even held his ground! I have a good feeling about this season. Seriously, I am a "Utah man, sir, and will be til I die!" (Note that this was written before Wynn hurt his shoulder again and decided to retire.)

Friday brought lunch with my friend, Liz, who I met during my stint at Deseret Book. We became fast friends and it was so nice to talk to her again.We walked down to the Food Court in City Creek and I introduced her to Chick-fil-a. She had no idea about their lemonade or their fries. Yum yum.

Saturday brought the party into full swing as I met some friends up at Brighton for more hiking. The plan was to hike A&B, a seven-peak hike that takes all day, but the weather decided it wasn't up for that. Instead, we hiked Mary-Martha-Katherine and had a blast!


The Group: (L to R) Sunshine, Sox, Dolly's sister, Sushi, Dolly, Moon, me, Winnie, and Pippin

The crazy weather couldn't decide what it wanted to do. When we started out, the rain clouds were threatening and we were freezing. After 20 minutes, the sun was shining and we were burning up. Later, the second half of the hike was spent in heavy cloud cover. Crazy, crazy weather happens whenever we start planning to hike A&B.

You know those times when you keep changing faces and wait to see what happens on the camera.... Good times all around.

We made it all the way to Katherine and it was gorgeous.

Singing "Little Sir Echo"

Sushi took a short cut and ended up falling in a bush. I don't know how it happened. I just know it happened,

Passing the "Frog Prince" I love that rock. So many good times happen by that rock.

I'll admit, I wasn't very excited about this particular birthday. My birthday week far surpassed my expectations and was now goes down in the history books as one of the best. Thank you, friends, for loving me so much!

correction

2012-09-27T21:19:00.000-07:00

Going through my goals for being 24, I couldn't cross off the "Get a full-time job."

I can now!

"What?" you ask.

Well, my dreams really do come true. I work

(drum roll please.....)

HERE!!!

Life is crazy, isn't it? I started working as the Receptionist in this same building January of this year. If you go back in time on my blog, you'll see some of my adventures in the lobby. I really enjoyed my time there but was told repeatedly that it was only a stepping stone. Many associates expected me to move up in the building.

I left to work at Brighton and it was much harder to leave than I thought it would be. My summer was amazing and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world, but I knew that when the time came, I wanted to head back to 57 W. South Temple.

It is a long, slightly complicated story to tell you how my job came to be. That long story short- around a month after camp ended, I got a call offering a position in the Marketing Department. I was in the parking lot for the State Fair (that's another story) and sat in shock.

I have a full-time job! I am now a full-time adult with benefits and everything! Crazy!

Jenny Hortin- Marketing Coordinator- DB Corporate Office.

Last Day of 24!

2012-08-27T15:53:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is my birthday. I know, let's all gasp together.

I looked back at the goals I set for my 24th year and found that I had been somewhat successful. And that I failed horribly.

To recap:

1. Lose pounds. Check. Sadly, the most happened in the last month from all the running around I was doing, but hey. Pounds are pounds.

2. Be able to jam on my guitar. Sorta check. I jammed but I still can't play much more than camp songs. Every time I pick it up, I make a new song by strumming random chords. Does that count as jamming? Dear Brighton friends, please come hang out with me so that we can jam some more.

3. Become employed in a full-time job. This one is a bit of a stretch. Before camp started, there was a time that I was working 3-4 part time jobs. Then camp happened and that was more than a full-time gig. At this current moment, I am not working at all. So can I check it off? Meh. Probably not.

4. Buy a car! Done. Signed. Sealed. Delivered. At this point, I have almost had it for a year. Crazy! Check out my Kia Optima:

She's beautiful, no?

5. Pay off a substantial amount on my student loans. Well, that's just comical. I suppose this is one that will carry over into every year of my life.

6. Go on a date at least once a month. Continuing the comedy- I am happy to say that I dated in my 24th year, but not anywhere close to once a month...

7. Read the Four Gospels. I thought that adding this to my repetoire would make me a true scriptorian. Let's just say that this is one that I will gladly carry over into my next year of living. Then again, why not add it to every year?

8. Graduate from Institute. It isn't that I didn't go to institute. No. I simply have yet to graduate. Hello 2013.

9. Try out a "30 for 30" I still want to do this, but something about it frightens me. I like variety, friends. Still, there is some "cool factor" that comes with having said that you accomplished a "30 for 30" (30 days using only 30 pieces of clothing from your wardrobe).

10. Run a 5K. There is an opportunity to do this next month. I guess we'll see if I'm in shape enough to handle it. Ha-

11. Fall in love. No, friends. I do not have a main squeeze. I don't even have a squeeze period. But, that doesn't mean that I didn't fall in love with other things. Peanut butter, sunrises, the color yellow, being a leader, 35 of the bestest friends a girl could ask for, etc. The list goes on and on...

12. Read all of Shakespeare's plays. Luckily for me, I have already read a good portion of his works in my lifetime. I get around to reading all the rest. I suppose I was being a bit ambitious. What was I thinking?

13. Write a song. Check. Double check. Triple check. Yes, friends. I wrote a song. And it is dang good if I do say so myself. Call me up someday and I will play it for you. It's called "Shine His Light."

14. Donate blood. I am counting this as accomplished because I had my blood drawn voluntarily (mostly) to help my dad. So, CHECK! Otherwise, who am I kidding?!

15. Take singing lessons. Um, no. Didn't happen. Shucks- out of luck.

16. Ride in a hot air balloon. Another shucks- out of luck. But I did see three balloons right outside my house and they were super low. One landed in the church parking lot down the street from my house. I guess that I should have run over and begged for a ride....

17. Learn to play harmonica. Well, I own one. And I can play Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. So- check. My list. My checks.

18. Hike after dark. Yes, friends. Not only did I hike a number of times in the day time, I can count at least two times that I hiked in the dark. And not only that, I still have a few times scheduled for the next few weeks. Boo-yah! Who has two thumbs and is super hardcore? This girl!

After the hike with my dear friend, Sox (Chelsea).

We collapsed a bit when we got home. Welcome to hiking at 3 am. From L to R: Sox, me, Blaze (Angela), and Winnie (Sasha).

19. Watch the sunrise. Remember how I hiked in the dark? Well, it was all to see the sunrise. Not to mention waking up before the sun because I couldn't sleep. I can never decide if I like the sun better to rise or set. I'll take either.

There was a crazy amount of smog or smoke or fog or something...but it is still pretty fantastic!

20. Go stargazing. Check a million times over. Every night this past summer, I would go out and watch the stars for a few moments. Shooting stars always make me smile. :)

21. Break 100 while bowling. Nope. Couldn't have done that because I never went bowling. Ah, shucks. Maybe I should be more heartbroken about it.

22. Volunteer at Make A Wish. That is still a dream of mine. With all this free time I have going on, it may be the perfect time!

23. Ride a major rollercoaster. Does Lagoon count?

24. Bear my testimony once a month. Well, I may not have reached once a month status, but in the past three months, I bore testimony a number of times a week. I'm sure that I beat a measley 12. Let's see what I can do in the next 12 months.

That is the "To-Do" list for last year. Stay tuned and I'll figure out the one for this year. Happy Jenny's Birthday Eve to all of you! May it be the best one yet :)

Hello Blogging World!

2012-08-23T11:39:00.000-07:00

I'm back!

After three of the most wonderful months of my life, I am back in civilization. Still, real life is proving to be much more difficult than I remember. Brighton 2012 officially ended last Saturday and in the time between then and now, I have:

*returned to my ward as a full time 1st counselor in the RS Presidency

*interviewed for a possible new position that I can't decide if I want or not...

*been rear-ended by an old man

*attempted to put my room back together with little success

*slept on the couch

*and ultimately felt completely useless.

Dear Real Life,

Help me figure you out.

Love, me

save me, san francisco (Part 1)

2012-05-14T14:59:00.001-07:00

Pictures!!! Like I promised! I wish I were back in Cali at this moment. Mondays are a little too crazy for me to handle. Then again, life is a little too crazy. I am fully in the thick of so many things that there is a chance I may explode!

(Was that dramatic enough? You can be honest. I was going for dramatic.)

April 27: Maggie, Melanie and I left on a jet plane for a much needed vacation. Mel is in AP Art History this year. As part of the course, students have the opportunity to visit San Fran and its many delightful art museums. I went when I was a senior in high school. Maggie went when she was a senior. Melanie, being the wonderful sister that she is, asked if we would be interested in tagging along as chaperones. Since we are both a few years older than 21, we jumped on that idea faster than you can say... anything.

The morning of April 27, we woke up at 4:30 am! We got ready, loaded up in the car with the parentals, and headed out. Of course, don't forget how I forgot my debit card and we had to run back to the house. I was 90% sure my family was about to disown me on the side of the road. Maggie added into the mix as we drove through Sugarhouse and we were finally headed to the airport!

We like to get Naked at the airport. Maggie likes to drink hot chocolate. (haha)

Or rather, Maggie likes to dribble half the container down her shirt.

One of Melanie's friends found out that we were sisters. She pointed to Maggie and said that she and Melanie looked like twins. Then she looked at me and said that I didn't. I think we look pretty similar...What do you think?

Our first view of California! I love window seats that are right above the wing and have done since I was 10 or so and we flew to Florida. Have you ever watched the flaps move as the plane slows? I'm always fascinated. Thanks for showing me, Daddio!

OCEAN! We really ARE on vacation!

We grabbed our bags and jumped on our bus for a city tour. Since we are odd in number, Ms. Hughes, one of my favorite people in the ENTIRE UNIVERSE, came and sat by us. We chatted about the fun things we were going to see, the memories Maggie and I have, the things we told Melanie were our favorites, what we are doing now with life....etc. We drove through Golden Gate Park by a sign that pointed visitors in the direction of Shakespeare Garden. Well, I couldn't contain my English self and made some kind of exclamation. Ms. Hughes turns to me and asks, "Are you an English major?"

I answered," Yeah...Does it show?"

Then Ms. Hughes goes on to say that she is also an English major and before we left that we should go and find City Lights, an awesome bookstore in San Francisco. We've bonded over English and Art and I LOVE IT!

I thought she was going to think I was a nerd. She did, but in her opinion, being a nerd is only being passionate about something you love.

We walked on Golden Gate Bridge!!! Check that off the Bucket List. Next time, we'll get bikes and travel all the way across!

thanks dove

2012-05-07T14:54:00.001-07:00

awkward and AWESOME

2012-05-07T09:20:00.001-07:00

I hope you look forward to these posts as much as I do. Isn't life wonderful and funny and heartbreaking and exhilarating and.....a million other things all at the same time???

awkward
-story: A few days ago while working, some surprise visitors came in to see an office associate. It was to be a surprise so I was sure not to mention any names. While on the phone calling said associate, I forgot what I was doing. Sometimes my brain and my mouth don't communicate and strange things happen. i don't know if this happens to any of you, but it happens to me ALL THE TIME! Dang-it. Still holding the phone but looking at the man waiting, I say, "Just a moment..." to the associate and then hang up while she is figuring out what the heck just happened.What I meant to say was, "See you in a second..." or something more intelligible that "Just a moment..." Luckily, she came down and quickly forgot about how much of a dork I am. The receptionist lingo is getting the better of me!

- There are times when I say things before I realize what the impact will be like in the previous story. I keep thinking it would be a good thing if I kept my mouth shut. Sadly, that would be far less entertaining for all of you.

- After Stake Conference, we had a Mix and Mingle. Huzzah for mingling. No huzzahs for not knowing how to mingle. I tried. I promise. And I almost got the nerve up to go and talk to a few "bros....brothers....brethren?" while I was wandering around. Almost. But I just felt awkward so I went home.

-Yesterday, we had our last Brighton orientation. Sad day. Have I mentioned how much I love my staff? They are amazingly wonderful! After the orientation, a few of my dear friends were asking me if I would like to be set up for Date Night. Now, don't get me wrong. I am always up to meet new people and I really like to date. But...apparently I am a little older than I look. When I confessed to being the old age of 24, their mouths dropped. "You don't look a day over 20!" Well, thank you? Shame that all that wisdom of four years doesn't show.

awesome

-The tulips are out in Temple Square! I love spring!

-PreCamp Week for Brighton starts five weeks from today! Five weeks! It feels forever away and then I realize all the things that I need to get ready before that time and I begin to wish I had another three. Workshops are awesome and I am learning so much about myself and how I will be asked to grow this summer. It is going to be fantastic!

-Sadly, sacrifices must be made so that I can have this wonderful adventure known as Brighton Director. I only have a month left at my favorite place of DB. Still, the people that I have met and with whom I continue to rub shoulders make all the difference. Friends in HR have been talking about what I will be doing come August. I still don't have a guaranteed position and that is okay. But yesterday at Stake Conference, President Cutler said, "When you are doing what you are supposed to be and serving the Lord with everything you have, things work out." It was exactly what I needed to hear. Thank heavens for an awesome Stake Presidency that make stake conference enjoyable and say the words I need to hear.

-Personally awesome: I am wearing khakis today that I didn't think fit me! And they even look pretty good! Maybe the gym IS paying off....(read in a whisper. I don't want to jinx anything.)

-Brighton Workshop on Saturday was a hit! Stories to come :)

-I finally got the cd player at work to allow me to change music. After last week, that is a huge feat. The miracle is that I didn't have to resort to kicking the blasted thing. Don't you love when technology has an attitude? I surely do...

-Little Mel is turning 18 tomorrow!!!! 18?!?!? Man! I'm getting old. She is most excited to be able to go and buy dry ice.

-Red is going to be on HKi staff next year! That is so exciting for me. My lil' sis is following in my footsteps. I can't wait to share with you what she writes for the school newspaper. It is gonna be good!

updated

2012-05-03T14:54:00.002-07:00

(The sisters and I are back home, safe and sound. The trip was a blast!!! It would be even more awesome if I wouldn't be so critical of myself. Explanation following- and this time I really mean it.)

Remember how I told you that I had a personal trainer?

Remember how excited I was?

Remember instead how Gold's Gym is annoying and a rip off?!

Oh right!

The delight of having a personal trainer came to a blazing, earth-shattering, irritating end this past Tuesday. I should have known that something that sounded too good to be true was in fact too good to be true.

I received a text from Jason, my "trainer", on Tuesday morning, saying that he couldn't train me that night unless I paid more money. I told him that a man named Mike gave me a discount. Mike is a manager and I understood that to mean something. Well apparently, Mike is not the big kid on campus. He's an idiot.

Now I am out more than $100 on two trainer sessions when it was supposed to be four. Major ERG!

My advice: Stay away from the men in yellow t-shirts at the gym that make you think they really want to help. In truth, they just want something to do. Oh - and all your money. Can't believe I got suckered in. In my frustration, I am now headed back to the Cardio Cinema to stay as far away from those men as I can. I won't make that mistake twice.

Take that Gold's!!!

update

2012-04-24T13:51:00.001-07:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Jenny on Pinterest

I know you have been sitting on pins and needles to know how things went with my personal trainer...so I'll tell you. I went Friday and exercised with Jeff and learned that I was doing a bunch of stuff wrong. My knees went out over my toes! Gasp! Such a rookie mistake and I'm not that much of a rookie. I worked hard but I didn't really feel that I was beaten to a pulp. After the workout, he started talking numbers and how much it would cost for an awesome workout every week....

Long story short, I now have a personal trainer! I hope this was a good idea.

Yesterday, while attempting to be a good girl, I headed to the gym but landed in the Cardio Cinema again and saw the exact same part of Invincible that I watched from the treadmill three weeks ago. One of these days, I will watch it from start to finish and no exercise equipment will be involved.

I'm branching out, though. After working out in the dark, I went over to the free weights for awhile AND used four machines! I don't know if people were watching. I sure hope not. But I exercised in broad gym light! This is progress!

left my heart

2012-04-21T22:01:00.000-07:00

6 days from today, I will be hanging out in SAN FRANCISCO with my sisters, Melanie and Maggie!

Oh my heavens, I am so excited!

Melanie is getting ready to take her AP Art History test in the next few weeks which means that it is time for the big San Fran trip with Ms. Hughes! Melanie was nice enough to allow both Maggie and me to come along as chaperones!!!!! Last week, I ran up to Alta for the mandatory information meeting and was sent back 6 years (Holy Crap! I graduated from highschool 6 years ago! Man, that makes me feel old....) ago to when I was the student going for my first time and just barely starting this addiction I have to art. Since then, this will be my third trip. Maggie and I spent my first Spring Break in college roaming the streets and having a grand ole time. Both of us can't wait until we can share our addiction to such a wonderful city with Mellie-

We have already planned out a good portion of the trip thanks to Ms. Hughes. Our itinerary includes three, yes, THREE art museums: the DeYoung, Legion of Honor and MOMA, and trips to Grace Cathedral, Glide Memorial, Lombard Street, Fisherman's Wharf, Union Square, Chinatown, and a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge! (Never done that before.) We'll ride cable cars, watch the sea lions, see Alcatraz from afar, shout "Hallelujah" with homeless friends at Glide Memorial, walk up and down the crazy hills until our feet fall off, eat Bourdin sourdough, indulge ourselves at Ghiradelli Square, and drop some cash in the boutique stores off the boardwalk. I can't wait to get on a plane and head out there! Aren't you jealous?

P.S. Sorry Brighton and DB. I'll be home soon!

ah, shoot....

2012-04-13T13:51:00.002-07:00

Here's my story: I want to get in shape. I'd really like to lose some pounds but let's be realistic- the priority is to get in shape. I have Brighton starting in 8 weeks and when the time comes, I need to be able to run up Hernia Hill at a moment's notice. I want to be able to be accessible to my staff without being lazy and using the four wheeler. Truly, with my luck, the four wheeler won't work for three-fourths of the summer anyways.

So I've started going to the gym more regularly. When I say more regularly, that is being generous. I have a gym membership to Gold's and have had it for some time but I rarely use it. I get the bill every once in awhile and think, "For this much money, I NEED to go to the gym," and then not much changes. I have been using the On Demand feature on my TV but they changed the workouts and now I only like the kick-boxing lady. So I finally decided to "man up," stick a gym bag in my car, and go before going home after work.

The whole point to this post is that I was cornered at the gym earlier this week as I was walking in and a man named Jeff (I should mention that he looked like he could kill me with his thumb) asked if I had been able to go over my goals and whatever else and if I would like to have a session with a personal trainer....blah, blah, blah. So I said yes. I mean, why not? He said it would be free...This whole thing happens tonight and now I'm panicking! I don't workout around people. I go to the Cardio Cinema because it is dark!!!! Hello! I know how to use some of the machines because I took a weight training course in college, but I am too self conscious to go and use them next to massive body builders and swim suit models. I am neither. And now I am going to go to the gym and see exactly how out of shape I am. What was I thinking?!?!

Well, it's been nice knowing you! I hope I see you after tonight's escapades....

P.S. Any tips you may have are more than welcome!